Current Page

Allergy Health & Wellness

Did you know... that between 10 and 15% of Canadians suffer from seasonal allergies and year-round allergies? Read on to learn about what allergies are, what causes them, and what you do to help cope with them.

In this article

What are allergies?

Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, and year-round allergy are caused by allergens. Allergens are things such as dust mites, pet hair, or pollen that can cause an allergic reaction, often inflammation in the nose. In people with allergies, allergens cause the immune system to recognize them as “foreign” or “dangerous” and this causes the reaction. These same things cause no response in most people.

Allergy symptoms

Allergy symptoms may include:

Sneezing

Stuffy, itchy, and/or runny nose

Itchy and watery eyes

Sore and itchy throat

Dark circles under your eyes

The symptoms may be similar to common cold symptoms, but you will know they are allergy-related if:

The mucus from your nose is runny and clear

Your sneezing is fast and happens multiple times in a row

Your nose, throat eyes, ears and the roof of your mouth are itchy

Your symptoms last longer than a week or 10 days

What causes allergies?

When you are outdoors, you are exposed to outdoor allergens such as tree pollens, grasses and weed.

Indoors, you may be exposed to indoor allergens such as dust mites, pets, second-hand smoke and/or mould.

Treating allergies

Avoiding allergens that trigger your symptoms is a good way to help reduce your symptoms. However, avoidance is not always practical. Other ways to treat allergies are shown in the chart on the other side of the page.

The Pharmacist at Walmart can advise you about which treatments will be most helpful in reducing and/or relieving your symptoms. Before making a selection on your own, ask the pharmacist.

Remember that if you are taking allergy medication, you must take it as directed in order for the medication to be effective.

Do I need medical care?

You should see your doctor or pharmacist before treatment of allergies if you:

*If you are pregnant or suffering from diabetes or high blood pressure, talk to the Pharmacist at Walmart or your doctor before using these products.

Allergy immunization

Allergy shots may be recommended if other treatments aren’t effective in relieving/reducing symptoms. Talk to the Pharmacist at Walmart or your doctor if you’d like to learn more about this option.

Important information

The Pharmacist at Walmart is knowledgeable about allergies. If you have questions about allergy symptoms and/or allergy management: Just ask.

This information should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your doctor. There may be variations in treatment that your physician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances. If you have questions about your symptoms, ask the Pharmacist at Walmart for more information, and/or contact your doctor.

This article is intended as general information. Always be sure to read and follow the label(s)/instruction(s) that accompany your product(s). Walmart will not be responsible for any injury or damage caused by this activity.